The Attorney-General's Department estimates 150 Australians are known to be substantially involved with extremist groups in Syria.

This number includes individuals who have travelled to the region and stayed there, have travelled and since returned to Australia, and others who have actively supported extremist activities in Syria but have remained physically located in Australia.

"The Australian Government recognises that many individual Australians and community groups want to help those affected by the conflict in Syria and Iraq," a spokesperson for the department said.

"Australians are encouraged to explore other ways in which to help the people affected by the conflict, including through the provision of humanitarian assistance by UN agencies and other non-government organisations that do not support either party to the conflict."

It is illegal for any Australian citizen to provide support, including financial, to an organisation listed a terrorist organisation under the Criminal Code Act.

New laws giving ASIO more surveillance powers to track their movements will be introduced when Parliament sits again in a few weeks.

You have no doubt been hearing a lot about the Paris Agreement and know that it pertains to climate change, but are too embarrassed at this stage to ask for an overall explanation of what it's all about.